Friday, May 23, 2008

Savor Some of Ice Cream's Newest Flavors

A new haven for ice cream lovers called Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream Shop opened in Seattle just two weeks ago. After hearing about their unique and intriguing flavors, I paid the shop a visit. The interior is simple and natural putting all the focus on the complex tastes that reside within. With flavors like balsamic strawberry, honey lavender, salted caramel and Thai iced tea, it's safe to say, this isn't your run-of-the-mill ice cream shop. So far I've sampled their "scout" mint (a fine representation of America's favorite Girl Scout cookie), salted caramel (a bit too salty for my taste) and Vivace coffee (my favorite so far). If you're not in the mood for funky flavors, Molly Moon also sells the three classics. I have tasted the strawberry, and I'm a big fan of its natural and subtle sweetness.

If you're salivating, but you're not in Seattle, I've come across a few unconventional flavors that are worth exploring:

Ben and Jerry have teamed up with Willie Nelson to create Country Peach Cobbler. Peach ice cream is blended with cinnamon-sugar shortbread and a peach swirl. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Farm Aid.

Haagen-Daz has also introduced a flavor for a cause. Their Vanilla Honey Bee ice cream blends basic vanilla with a hint of honey, and proceeds fund research on protecting the honey bee population. Bee-autiful!

Every southern girl's favorite ice cream brand, Blue Bell, has created a new flavor based on the winning entry from their Taste of the Country Flavor Contest. The winning combo features chunks of pineapple, roasted pecans and a strawberry sauce swirl blended throughout their homemade vanilla. The inviting flavor is called Southern Hospitality.

Have a great Memorial Day weekend, and if you haven't gotten the hint, go eat some ice cream!

Wow! I have been looking for new and interesting ice cream flavors lately and haven't had nearly as much luck. Salted Caramel and Thai Iced Tea sound wonderful! I will have to look for Molly Moon's when I am in Seattle next time. And the Maple Ginger Snap Gelato sounds great too!